Two experts from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) have been made Distinguished International Fellows by the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH).

Professor Chris Drakeley and Professor Kwaku Poku Asante received the honour for their outstanding contributions to malaria research and efforts to improve health in malaria-endemic regions.

The ASTMH Distinguished International Fellow award recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of tropical medicine and global health. Professor Chris Drakeley has dedicated his career to understanding the mechanisms of malaria transmission and immunity. His groundbreaking work on sero-surveillance techniques has transformed how researchers and policymakers track malaria transmission, providing vital data to guide elimination strategies.

Professor Drakeley said: “It is a fantastic honour to be recognised by the ASTMH and to be included in such an impressive list of Fellows. The annual meetings in the US have always been a great place to interact with colleagues from all over the world. The resulting collaborations, partnerships and friendships have been fundamental to my work and I am grateful for the opportunity they provide.”

Professor Kwaku Poku Asante, a leading researcher in global health and Director of the Kintampo Health Research Centre Research and Development Division of Ghana Health Service, has made significant strides in advancing clinical trials and public health interventions. His contributions to vaccine research, including the development and deployment of the RTS,S malaria vaccine, have been instrumental in reducing the burden of malaria in vulnerable populations, particularly children in sub-Saharan Africa.

Professor Asante said: “I am truly humbled but honoured to receive an ASTMH award for my contributions to global health.  This recognition by a wide group of my mentees, peers and senior colleagues fuels my passion for improving health outcomes worldwide and inspires me to continue striving towards our shared goals of equity, accessibility, and innovation especially in malaria vaccine research. This award is not just a celebration of my individual achievements; it is a demonstration of the collective efforts of my collaborating institutions and everyone committed to enhancing global health. “ 

For more information about the award and its recipients, visit the ASTMH website.